NIL UPDATES: News, Rules & Regulations

This week in NIL highlights the intricate ways universities, conferences and athletes are leveraging opportunities and partnerships to stay competitive in the rapidly changing landscape of college sports. Tom Brady Helps Michigan Land Top QB Bryce Underwood The Michigan Wolverines secured a massive recruiting win this week by flipping Bryce Underwood, the nation’s No. 1 high school quarterback, from LSU. While reports suggest a substantial NIL package—potentially up to $12 million—was pivotal, Michigan also utilized a unique resource: NFL legend and Michigan alum Tom Brady. Brady’s involvement, including numerous FaceTime calls with Underwood, played a key role in persuading the Belleville, Michigan native to stay close to home. This collaboration showcases Michigan’s strategic use of alumni influence alongside NIL, making it a standout in college recruiting. Ohio State Embraces NIL with Expanded Scholarships and University Support Ohio State President Ted Carter announced major stride...

This week’s NIL updates spotlight huge deals, a continuing legal showdown, and high-stakes recruiting shifts, reflecting the diverse impacts of Name, Image, and Likeness on athletes and college sports. LSU Commit Bella Hines Signs Historic NIL Deal with Jordan Brand Class of 2025 recruit Bella Hines, a five-star guard and LSU commit, made history as the only current high school athlete signed to Jordan Brand. The Albuquerque native joins the prestigious Jordan roster, a deal negotiated by her agent and part of LSU’s top-ranked recruiting class. Hines’ signing highlights how NIL extends beyond college, offering opportunities for young athletes to shape their brand even before stepping on campus. Her partnership with Jordan Brand positions Hines alongside former LSU stars like Angel Reese, further enhancing LSU’s prominence in NIL. Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia Advances in Lawsuit Against NCAA Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia’s lawsuit against the NCAA took a step forward this week, with a...

This week’s NIL landscape underscores the intersection of college sports, legal battles, and the influence of recent elections as schools, athletes, and lawmakers work to shape the future of college athletics. Michigan Offers Life-Changing NIL Deal to Flip Top QB Recruit The Michigan Wolverines are making headlines with a substantial NIL offer to lure top 2025 quarterback Bryce Underwood away from LSU. Sources report Michigan’s offer, initially at $5 million, has now doubled to a potential $10 million deal over his college career. With Michigan’s urgent need for an elite quarterback and Underwood’s proximity to Ann Arbor, the Wolverines are pulling out all the stops to secure his commitment. Underwood, already valued at $1.9 million in high school, may see his NIL worth skyrocket as his college decision nears. Election Results Set Stage for NIL Changes This week’s election results could bring significant changes to college athletics. With Republicans now controlling the Senate, Texas S...

This week’s NIL developments highlight the diverse ways athletes engage with Name, Image, and Likeness opportunities, from charitable ventures and missed opportunities to high-profile speculation. Mady Sissoko Turns NIL Earnings into Hope for His Village in Mali In a remarkable display of generosity, Cal basketball star Mady Sissoko has directed his NIL earnings toward transforming his village of Tangafoya, Mali. Through the Mady Sissoko Foundation, he has funded a school, well, and medical clinic for his town, creating essential resources for a community that previously lacked basic services. Sissoko’s commitment to his hometown, made possible by NIL, shows how this new opportunity can be used for meaningful impact beyond personal gain, inspiring athletes and fans with his compassionate efforts to reshape lives in Mali. Johnny Manziel Reflects on NIL as a “Game-Changer” for His Career Former Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel, a household name in college football, recently refle...